పరువులేని నడపీనుగకు ఊరేమి, పాడేమి?

This expression is used to describe a situation where a significant failure, a wicked person, or a major disaster doesn't occur in isolation but drags others down with it. In a literal sense, it refers to the ancient superstition that when a person of high rank dies, another death soon follows in the vicinity. Figuratively, it warns that a 'big' problem will inevitably cause collateral damage or take someone else along with it.

This proverb highlights the essential nature of self-respect and integrity for an individual. Just as a crop cannot grow healthy or yield results without proper manure/fertilizer, a person (metaphorically referred to as a farmer) cannot truly thrive or lead a meaningful life without honor and social standing.

This proverb describes a situation where, in the absence of a capable leader or authority figure, an unworthy or cunning person assumes power and acts as if they are the ruler. It is used to mock the authority of someone who has gained importance only because there are no better alternatives available.

This proverb highlights that certain things are useless or ineffective without their essential qualities. Just as a field cannot yield good crops without fertilizer (nutrients), a river loses its purpose or identity if it has no flow or momentum. It is used to describe situations where a core component is missing, making the whole entity pointless.

This expression refers to a situation where a lot of effort, money, or energy is spent on something that is already useless or dead. It describes a futile act or an event where there is no appreciation or benefit, as the recipient is unable to enjoy or respond to the efforts made.

This is a traditional Telugu proverb used to describe a person who is exceptionally tall and lanky, often to the point of appearing awkward or sickly. It suggests that such a physical stature attracts ridicule or odd stares from others, comparing the ungainly sight to a walking skeleton or corpse.

This expression refers to a futile or meaningless action. It describes an effort that is wasted because the recipient or the situation cannot benefit from it, just as makeup or jewelry is useless on a dead body.

This expression emphasizes the power of silence and patience. It suggests that if a person remains calm, avoids unnecessary arguments, and stays silent during a conflict, even an entire community or a large group cannot harm them or provoke them into trouble. It is often used to advise someone to stay quiet to avoid escalating a situation.

This proverb emphasizes the importance of using fertilizers or manure in agriculture. It suggests that if a farmer neglects to enrich the soil, the crop will inevitably fail, leading to poverty and hunger. It is used to highlight that success requires the right inputs and preparation.

This expression describes a situation where one is forced to seek a loan or credit during a time of extreme scarcity or crisis. It signifies an act of desperation or a burden upon an already struggling person, as borrowing during a famine is difficult to repay and even harder to obtain.